Liverpool After Dark - Liverpool ECHO

★★★★

LIVERPOOL

Yourguidetothecity'snightlife . . . thebestlivemusic,bars, clubsandplacestoeat

AFTERDARK

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LIVERPOOL AFTER DARK Tuesday, February 9, 20102 ★★★★

AFTERDARK.... yourguidetothecity'snightlife . . .

4-6: Albert Dock –Waterside dining and elegantbars in Grade 1 listedsplendour, plus the biggestmusic venue in town.7: Liverpool One – Thehottest new nightspots in a newafter dark quarter all of its own.8: Mathew Street – Treadthose famous steps andcelebrate the Fab Four.9: Brunswick Street andbeyond – The old centre ofbanking and trading is nowhome to a thriving foodiescene.10: Victoria Street – WAGheaven and great pubs galore.11-13: The old Ropewalks –This district is home to someof the our best bars.14: Concert Square – Partycentral among the city’sweekend capital.15: Bold Street – Quirkyeateries, cool bars and indiestylings along a city favourite.16: Hardman Street andUpper Parliament Street –Great live music and stylish barsmix student chic with theyoung professionals.17: Student quarter –University venues that appeal toall.18&19: Hope Street –Culture vultures love this artyheaven, with a gourmet flavour.20&21: Lime Street – Thearea around the station is hometo an eclectic mix.22&23: Suburban havens –A flavour of the after darkoffering all around Merseyside.

Mytop tips . . .EMMA MCHARRIE, Promotions

Manager at the ECHO arenaWorking at Liverpool’s biggest music

venue, Emma certainly has her finger on

the pulse of the city’s nightlife. But when

she’s not working on the highest profile

gigs, what are her tips on Merseyside’s

hidden after dark gems?What's your favourite night time

view?“Definitely the Liverpool skyline – it’s

beautiful. I could stand and gaze at it for

hours. Jury’s Inn have a room that has

floor to ceiling windows and views of

the skyline / across the Mersey and the

City –it’s stunning and I’ve made many a

person stand and marvel at the views

with me and help spot land marks.”

Where's the best place to eat in

the evenings?“I ate at Noble House for the first time

in December and it was delish – can

highly recommend the fish with sesame

dressed Asian noodles – yum!”What's your favourite place tocatch live music?“Where else but the ECHO arena?!

There’s loads of gigs coming up this year

and I’m really looking forward to seeing

Lady Gaga, Kiss, Rihanna and of course

the lovely JLS boys … hmmm; plus Kelly

Clarkson….Mamma Mia and X Factor!

Oh and I am really intrigued as to what

Cesar Milan will be like, as the dog

owner of the lovely Harley I’m hoping to

get some tips. So many shows – and I

want to see them all!”Where does the best drinks?“I’m quite liking the Sir Thomas Hotel

for cocktails at the moment.”At the end of the night, wheredoes the best takeaway?“Pizza Express. For an early night/late

night/any night takeaway. It’s also aregular lunch time favourite – can’t beat

a bit of takeaway pizza at your desk, and

I pretty much always want take out pizza

after a gig night.”

CONTENTS

Tuesday, February 9, 2010 LIVERPOOL AFTER DARK 3★★★★

... thebestbars, clubsandplaces toeat

FROM the heady days of theCavern, through the danceyears at Cream, the AlbertDock’s resurgence and nowthe ECHO arena and

Liverpool One, this is a city that hasalways come alive after dark.

By day we are a thriving businesscity but it’s at night, when Liverpoollets its hair down that the real magicbegins.

Part of that comes from the factthat while there are distinct areasthat come alive in the evenings,there is no real segregation withinthem.

Uber-cool clubs sit alongsidefamily restaurants, theatres nestlecheek by jowl with old fashioned alehouses.

A stone’s throw from the rehearsalrooms The Zutons and The Wombatsshare with the city’s up-and-comingunsigned acts lies Cains Brewery. Ashort stagger from the WAGtasticbars of Victoria Street lies MathewStreet, the top spot on the itinerariesof the thousands of tourists whomake the pilgrimage to get theirpictures taken next to the statue ofJohn Lennon, buy a souvenir orwander down the steps of the CavernClub, the place where it all began.

Mathew Street in 2010 seemsworlds away from the dingysidestreet of legend, and mixed inwith the salty breeze from theAtlantic is an unmistakable sense ofoptimism.

Liverpool is a small city, easilynavigable on foot. In minutes youcan stroll from the Pier Head to thePhilharmonic Hall via theneoclassical splendours of StGeorge’s Hall, passing scores of

THENIGHTLIFETHATPUTSTHELIVE! INLIVERPOOLSupplementwritten andresearched byJADEWRIGHT

venues on your way. The problem ischoosing which to visit…

So, for this guide to Liverpool’sbest nights out, we’ve grouped thevenues not by type, but by location.So rather than reading about all thebars in one section, the musicvenues in another and therestaurants somewhere else, allowus to be your guide on a strollaround the city centre on a nightout.

We couldn’t possibly include everyone, this is just a flavour of what’s

out there. If you have favouriteswe’ve not listed, I’d love to hear allabout them.

Drop me a note to: Jade Wright,Liverpool ECHO, Old Hall Street,Liverpool, L69 3EB, and we’ll do ourbest to include them next time wedo something like this.

In the meantime, sit back and readabout some of our favourites in thecity and further afield. Then let’sraise a glass to our after dark scene.Cheers.

Whatever your tastes, be itfine dining or a real aleboozer, there is something inLiverpool for you

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Mytop tips . . .JAMES MCGORY is theowner of Vinea, one of thecity’s finest hidden gems.

But what’s his favouritetucked away bar?

“For us the hidden gem ofLiverpool’s nightlife is Studio2 at Parr St Studios,” saysJames. “The décor is opulent,the beers are great and theatmosphere is chilled.

“The best wine bar withthe best night time view hasto be on the Albert Dock on clear

night with the lights reflecting in the

water. Where better to enjoy this view

than from the comfort of Vinea with a

bottle of wine and a cheese board!”

How about for dinner anddancing?

“The ultimate place to eatis 60 Hope Street. If you’relucky enough to get a table ona Saturday you are in for avery special experience.Unrivalled food and superbwines are on offer.

“When it comes to livemusic we love the eclecticmix of jazz, salsa and acousticacts that can be found atHannah’s on Leece Street. It’sa place where you can sit and

enjoy the music plus get up and throw

some shapes.”Where’s the best place to meet

friends for a drink?“Apart from ourselves, a fantastic

place to educate your wine palate is at

Noble House on Brunswick Street.

Their brilliant wine dispenser gives you

the opportunity to try top end wines

without having to get the whole bottle

and there is always a sommelier on hand

to guide you.“If it’s a pub quiz you’re after, check

out the Cambridge on Sunday evenings.

Clare Dooley hosts a quiz with a twist as

well as bingo and play your cards right.

It’s free to enter and you even get chips

halfway through! The only downside is

the quiz only runs during university term

times.“And finally, when the night is ending

and the inevitable midnight snack is

looming, we like to take advantage of

having so many Chinese restaurants on

hand. A perfect end to a perfectLiverpool evening.”

THE Albert Dock area offers a feast ofentertainment after dark. Whetheryou want culture, clubs or a bite to eatin the sunshine, there’s somewhere foryou at the converted dock buildings.

Vinea is a hidden gem. With good service,a superb wine list, and delicious food, it’s aspecialist wine bar and shop, with big redand black sofas and paintings of pop cultureicons dotted around.

Marilyn Monroe smiles down from onewall and a huge array of wine bottles onwooden shelves invite you to sample them.

It’s is one of a growing breed of placeshappy to serve you just drinks or drinks andfood, calling itself a wine bar, coffee bar anddeli and staying open until 11pm most nights.

It’s all table service, which is a good thingas the menu is extensive, with lots of foodand drinks to choose from, including animpressive list of snacks to order.

They do a large cheese board platter toshare (£10.95), with a great array of hard andsoft speciality cheeses, served with grapes,olives, fresh bread and olive oil.

The cheapest wine will set you back just£4.99 for a take-out bottle of delicious 2006Chilean Malbec, but if you’re feeling flushthey do a 2003 Robert Monday Opus One for£185.

If you want to drink it in the restaurant, itwill cost an extra £6 per bottle corkage.

If you’re not sure what you want, or justfancy something new, their sommeliers areon hand to advise you.● Vinea, Britannia Pavilion, Albert Dock,0151-707 8962.

Circo goes from strength to strength. Part

circus, part freakshow, it’s the only venue inthe city with a 10ft Polar Bear. Go along fortheir Freakshow nights, complete with fireeaters, stilt walkers, snake charmers and ahost of other wonderful and weird things.

It’s a celeb favourite, with Ross Kemp, JoeCalzaghe, Coleen Rooney, Jennifer Ellison,Alex Curran, Sophie Anderton and theLiverpool and Everton players often spottedthere.

Vernon Kay has DJed and Beyonce chose itas the venue for her private party after the

MTV Europe Music Awards.It holds 750 and Executive Chef Stephen

Hampton does a great Fillet of Manx beef,pan basted, served with baby vegetables,mushroom gratin potatoes & rich veal jus(£24.95). They do a bargain two-course menufrom Sunday – Thursday for £19.95 perperson including of bottle of wine each.

Ask nicely and head barman BradleighWoods will make you a Candy Floss Martini(£6.60), or if you’re feeling flush, try the Aceof Spades Champagne at an eye-watering

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£350 per bottle.● Circo, Britannia Pavilion, Albert Doc,0151-709 0470.

Former tobacco warehouse Gusto servesdelicious Italian-inspired food day and night.Exec Chef Graham Kirk whips up a meansalt baked seabass with orange & fennel(£14.95), and The Griffin Pizza, combineshomemade stonebaked dough topped withroast chicken, pepperoni, roasted red onions,sliced chilli and mozzarella (£8.95).

The Grade I listed building retains theoriginal vaulted brick ceilings with stonefloors. It can seat between 260-400, but thecosy intimate lighting and warm welcomemakes it feel homely.

Head barman Martin Knowles knocks up afab English Bellini, Prosseco with pear pureeand Manzana Verde (£5.95), and his MardiGras is a riot of fruit flavours on a lemonbase, Ketel One Citron vodka, freshraspberries, fresh pressed apple juice andpassion fruit (£6.95).

Celebrity diners include David Gest, BillNighy, Henry Winkler, John Simm, EwanBrennan, Kyron Bracken, Julie Christie, LizMcClarnon, and it’s a regular haunt forLiverpool and Everton players.

● Gusto, Edward Pavilion, Albert Dock,0151-709 6969.

Blue Bar & Grill plays host to a season ofgreat live music. Housed in the traditionalexposed brickwork of the iconic Albert Dock,their Live Lounge nights have showcasedBeverley Craven, Finley Quaye and nextmonth Chesney Hawkes, as well as a host ofup-and-coming talent.

The restaurant seats 200 and altogether it

holds 750, so there’s always a buzz about theplace.

Executive Chef Mark Farrell does a greatGrilled Gressingham Duck Breast (£15.95)and they’re well known for their Fillet Steak(£22.95) and Rack of Lamb (£17.95).

Head bartender Joanna Elkin servesCorona (£3.40), Grey Goose Vodka &Cranberry Juice (£3.40) and a deliciouslyzingy Mojito (£6.50), but for a real treat, try

the Jammie Dodger Shooter (£3.50).● Blue Bar & Grill, Edward Pavilion, AlbertDock, 0151-702 5831.

What’s Cooking was the first restaurant toopen in the Albert Dock in 1985 and is nowback again.

In celebration of their heritage, everyMonday night they have their original 80smenu – with its original 80s prices.

But while Mondays may be retro, the restof the week is bang up to date, with bandsincluding You me at Six, Hollywood Undead,Super Furry Animals, Carmine Appice,Rubella and Gay Blades all taking to thestage.

There’s a sense of the place’s history too,with 200-year-old exposed brick walls,vaulted ceilings and stone floors

Head chef Simon James does slow roastedribs (£5.75), Hereford grass fed 100% beefburgers (£8) and sizzling fajitas (£10.95).

Bar Manager Leon Lates serves Cainsspeciality beers (£3.75), Malandrino PinotGrigio wine (£14 a bottle), Island Breezecocktail (£2.99).

Victoria Wood, Mikel Arteta, FernandoTorres, and Xabi Alonso have all beenspotted in those famous red leather booths.

And, fact-lovers, did you know that all thePillars around the dock are orange except thepillars outside What’s Cooking which aregrey. The reason for this is that after openingBritannia Pavilion in 1840 Prince Albertmoored his boat there and wanted the pillarsto be different from the rest of the dock.● What’s Cooking, Britannia Pavilion, AlbertDock, 0151-707 2023.

THEDOCKS

The Albert Dock inmoonlightPicture: JASONROBERTS

Visist: www.angelsliverpool.co.ukParadise Bar, 18 Cumberland St. Liverpool, L60 6BU • Phone: 0151 236 0236

Angelsopening times:

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V.I.P. Bar21 Old Hall Street opening times:

Wed-Thurs 9pm-6amFri-Sat 6pm-6am • Sun 8pm-4am

Specialising in:Stag nights, business

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FOR big gigs from even biggernames, the ECHO arena isthe place to be. Housed in anaward-winning buildingbeside the Albert Dock and

the world-famous Liverpoolwaterfront, the 11,000-capacityECHO arena opened in January 2008with the launch event for Liverpool:European Capital of Culture.

It has since played host to a stringof international events, includingthe MTV Europe Music Awards,BBC Sports Personality of the Yearand Cirque du Soleil, concertperformances Elton John, BobDylan, Pink, Kings of Leon, Oasisand Beyoncé.● Echo Arena Liverpool, MonarchsQuay, Liverpool, L3 4FP,www.echoarena.com

On the last Thursday of everymonth, Tate Liverpool opens itsdoors until 9pm for an evening ofmusic, events, food and drink.

Recent events include the fabulousNight Fever, which saw the gallerytransported to the 1970s with a silentdisco dancefloor gallery space byWayne Hemingway and his sonJack, and an arty party where fancydress was a must.

Tate Cafe serves a deliciousdinner menu at the late events too.Culture, food and good company.What more do you want?● Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock,Liverpool, L3 4BB, 0151 702 7400,www.tate.org.uk

The PanAm is a mixture oftraditional and contemporary fare,with a variety of modern Britishand European influences, offering achoice of simple drinks, a bistromenu, an extensive a la carte menuor a pre concert menu.

Guests can expect a diverseentertainment offering; those optingfor a more relaxing evening can chillout in one of the intimate booths. Or,bring your dancing shoes and havefun to some of the regular live musicon offer.

Plus, if you go before or after anECHO arena show, they'll give you20% off your bill. All you need to dois show your ticket.

● PanAm, The Albert DockLiverpool, L3 4AE, 0151 702 5840,www.panam-venue.co.uk

The new kid on the Dock, PorticoCantina & Bar holds 250 downstairsand 50 upstairs. This watersidevenue draws upon its maritimeheritage to bring an exciting newaddition to the docks.

Executive chef John Tamila does adreamy pan roast organic salmonfillet with sunblush tomato and olivecous cous (£12.95). A must try forvegetarians is the Grilled RoastVegetable & Chickpea Patty (£6.95).

At the bar try the Al Cappucchino(£5.95). This tipple goes down astorm with coffee lovers, withMartell VS Cognac, Cartron

Chocolate Liqueur, condensed milk,fresh cream and grated Belgianchocolate.

The Shango Mojito (£8.95) is madewith Bacardi, Velvet Falernum,fresh mint, sugar syrup and sodawater, topped off with a GoslingsBlack Seal float. Shango is theCuban God of Thunder andDebauchery, so the team at Porticothought it was only fitting to createa Mojito in his name. Legend has it,that anyone who consumes one ofShango’s sacred Mojito’s may oneday possess his powers.

Well, it's got to be worth a try...● Portico Cantina & Bar, AlbertDock, 0151 706 7400,www.porticocantina.co.uk

DISCOFUNISANARTFORM

Night Fever discosaw the TateLiverpool gallerytransported to the1970s with a silentdisco dancefloor;above right, theECHO arena is oneof the new gems ofthe city waterfrontMain picture: GARETHJONES



YOUCANBEONEOFTHE INCROWD

Mytop tips . . .VINCENT CLINCKEMAILLIE,

Food and Beverage Manager atHilton LiverpoolVincent is responsible for day today operation of The ExchangeRestaurant and Pima Bar. He wasborn in France and has worked for

Hilton in London and Milan, butloves his new adopted home town.

What's your after dark hiddengem in Merseyside?“Vinea wine bar on the Albert Dock – it

has an amazing choice of drinks and

cheese boards. I love to walk along the

River Mersey, from the Albert Dock to

Otterspool is my favourite, although I do

also like to see the Liverpool One big

wheel lit up at night, it’s very romantic.

“Chavasse Park has some great bars and

restaurants and now of course the Hilton

Liverpool, but I like Palm Sugar as it

is very sophisticated.”What's your favourite club/clubnight?“Cream at Nation is always a special

occasion.”Where's the best place to eatin the evenings?“The Exchange Restaurant HiltonLiverpool of course! I have found it

hard to match.”What's your favourite place to catch

live music?“It has to be The Cavern Club, the

atmosphere is electric, they play old and

new music and being new to the City I

love the Beatles Tribute bands, I know, I

am still a tourist.”What's your favourite place for a

quiet drink?

“Lark Lane is my favourite, it is so laid back

and relaxed, I like Maranto’s, full of

personality.”Where does the best drinks?“Pima Bar Hilton Liverpool has a fabulous

cocktail called The Martini Flight; you would

be hard pressed to find anyone with more

passion for cocktails, than James the

manager of Pima Bar.“I love the wines in Vinea, they have such a

range it’s amazing, you can drink all around

the world.”Can you recommend any good pub

quizzes?“The Ship and Mitre, it’s like being on

Mastermind!”At the end of the night, where does

the best takeaway?“It has to be the Lobster pot! The ultimate

Liverpool Chippy.”

Wirat Sutthamma,head chef at Thairestaurant, Chaophraya.Inset: Cocktails at thePima Bar in The HiltonHotelMain picture: JAMESMALONEY

WITH more than 160 famous highstreet stores, ultra-hip fashionbrands, cool independentboutiques, a cinema, cafés andrestaurants, Liverpool One is a

must see destination by day. But by night, it’ssomething special too, with a clutch of ubercool bars and restaurants.

James Myers, head barman at Pima inLiverpool's new Hilton hotel (0151 708 4200),specialises in marvellous mojitos, beautifulBellinis and cracking caipirinhas.

There’s live music and DJs every Thursday,Friday and Saturday and their bar snacks areto die for. Casanova caviar (£90) offersBellini’s, soured cream, chopped egg andBelvedere vodka.

Pima Prive is the intimate VIP areacurtained off from the main bar – it needs tobe booked, but it’s like having your own mininight club – and comes with your very owncocktail waiter.

It’s becoming a celeb mecca, but as you canexpect with any Hilton Hotel, discretion iseverything. However, you can be sure to spota famous face or two in a bar like Pima.

The name Pima Bar is taken from atraditional form of high quality cottoninfluenced by the history in the cotton tradein Liverpool. The interior of the bar picks upon the cotton trade in its design, with glasswall panels etched with cotton flowers withreal cotton embedded in the design, to thelight fittings which represent cotton flowers.

If you’re looking for somewhere stylish toeat, look no further than The Exchange atHilton Liverpool.

Exec chef Matthew Burns has sourced themenu from a 40 mile radius, offering the

finest north west cuisine. The cotton tradewhich had its foundations in the site, whichonce was home to the Customs House of theold Port of Liverpool and is the inspirationfor naming the restaurant The Exchange.

The restaurant seats 140, and we love theGoosnargh chicken breast, crispy leg withcreamed cabbage, Formby mushroom andshallot sauce (£14.95). As you would expect,Hilton has an extensive wine list to please alltastes, the cocktail menu is serviced by PimaBar, whose speciality is the Martini Flight, atrio of martinis served on a slate, just oozesstyle.● Hilton Hotel, 3 Thomas Steers Way,Liverpool One, 0151-708 4200.

Just over Chavasse Park, Chaophraya isstunning – a tank of goldfish preside over theentrance, and huge chandeliers hang from theceiling.

A new-ish addition to the scene, it’s a fabThai restaurant.

The ladies and gents’ toilets are separatedby another giant fishtank, so the women canwatch the men primp and preen themselveswhile they wash their hands.

But it’s the menu at Chaophraya that’s the

real star. The Chaophraya mixed vegetarianappetisers (£5 each, with a minimum of twopeople) is sublime. Similarly the gaengpanang tao hou (£7), the famous Thai redcurry with kaffir lime leaves and coconutmilk will have your mouth watering.● Chaophraya, 5-6 Kenyon Steps, LiverpoolOne, 0151-707 6323.

The adjoining Palm Sugar Lounge is assweet as the name suggests. The new bar is adecadent mix of far eastern culture anddesign with classic New York style cocktailbar action.

The slick long running bar is like a runwayfrom the main entrance, taking in brightcolours and mirrored walls to create an auraof a space twice its size.

On one side is the bar, staffed with an armyof experienced shakers and makers – whichmeans you're never left waiting for a drink.

On the other the floor to ceiling windowsoffer incredible views across the city's docksand waterfront while also suck in tons ofnatural light and thrilling sunsets.

Outside the Sugar Lounge boasts analfresco seating/ drinking area – we’re justwaiting for the warm weather so we canmake the most of it.

Their cocktails are all winners, but it’d berude not to try their cognac-rich LiverpoolOne. Maybe one to save for after a Lotterywin is the house signature cocktail – theBangkok Slip, at a cool £10,000 a throw. Ouch.● Palm Sugar Lounge, 5-6 Kenyon Steps,Liverpool One, 0151-707 6654.

Zeligs is the brainchild of Rob Gutmann,the man behind Korova, Alma de Cuba, Circoand Raven.

It’s tucked deep in the foundations of thecity’s £1bn shopping development. There is noattempt to hide the giant concrete structureoverhead and you can still see thespray-painted arrows which helped a legionof builders put Liverpool One together.

Their specialities include shell clamswedged with salty strips of pancetta andTabasco herbed butter (£4.95) and searedvenison with pappardelle in a wild mushroomsauce and pea shoots (£15.95).

It’s also a music venue – Echo and theBunnymen singer Ian McCulloch did threenights there last year, and they often have livebands to entertain the diners. If music be thefood of love, play on...● Zeligs, 8 Thomas Steers Way, LiverpoolOne, 0151-709 7097.

The Slaughterhouse Pub Come and spend theweekend with us

Fenwick St, Liverpool, L12 7LS - Tel: 0151 236 0704

The Slaughterhouse Pub

Fenwick St, Liverpool, L12 7LS - Tel: 0151 236 0704

Come and spend theweekend with us

Friday 12th Feb - The Real Deal 10pmSaturday 13th February - De-Coy 10pmValentines Day - Sunday 14th February

Yozzers Special Karaoke*Sing to the one you love and get two free glasses

of Bubbly from Gary! 5pm onwards• Comedy Club 8pm-10pm (call for more information)



Mytop tips . . .John Keats, Events and Marketing for

The CavernWhat's your after dark hidden gem

in Merseyside?“It has to be Bar Italia on Castle Street.

It’s a traditional Italian restaurant run by

the legendary Franco! I recently had a

business lunch there which lasted till

11.30pm so it is definitely an after dark

hidden gem.“But the one place I'd recommend anyone

to see by night is the Anglican Cathedral.

It’s impressive enough in the day but in the

evening it is breathtaking.”What's your favourite night time

view?“The Panoramic Restaurant is hard to

beat for general night time views of

Liverpool, but I have to say the big wheel

at Liverpool One and the view towards

the Albert Dock was impressive. Not that

you would get me up on the wheel, my

five year old son and six year old daughter

enjoyed it though.”What's your favourite club/clubnight?“At the Cavern we have regular indie

club/live music nights with a London

promoter Jar Music. The best in unsigned

bands and DJs from all over the UK. Also

our Imagine Live nights are great club

nights, live on the internet from the

Cavern.”Where's the best place to eat in the

evenings?“I would always have said Ziba at the

Racquet Club which is always excellent

British Cuisine, great wines and top

service, but Chaophraya at Liverpool One

has converted me to Thai Cuisine.

Beautiful flavours and the design and

ambience is second to none.”What's your favourite place for a

quiet drink?“It has to be my local in Crosby, The

Crow’s Nest. Proper old style pub.

“But for cocktails it has to be Palm Sugar. I

strongly recommend the BrandySeparator which is actually off menu but

an absolute classic served perfectly and

drunk in moderation (2-3 max!).”At the end of the night, where does

the best takeaway?“The Lobster Pot chippie never fails to hit

the spot! However, if you are looking for a

late night meal with a bit more class, I

would head over to Blundell Street

Restaurant & Bar to grab a late night

snack and enjoy one of their live acts.”

FROM the heady days of the Cavern,through Eric’s, and now a host ofbars and clubs, Mathew Street is ahive of activity after dark. It’s thetop spot on the itineraries of the

thousands of tourists who make thepilgrimage to get their pictures taken nextto the statue of John Lennon, buy asouvenir or wander down the steps of theCavern Club.

Wander along and listen as music waftsfrom the many pubs and bars hosting thestars of the future in return for a few quidand a pint of Cains.

You really ought to stop off for a pint inThe Grapes. This is where the Fab Fourdrank in their Cavern-playing days. Theevidence remains in a 1962 photographtaken of John, Paul, George… and PeteBest, as they relaxed after one particulargig. You may even bump into their oldpromoter Sam Leech in the back room.

Buy him a pint and he’ll tell you all youever wanted to know about Liverpool’smost famous sons.● The Grapes, 25 Mathew Street,Liverpool, 0151-255 1525

Then there’s the White Star, justaround the corner. This former 19thCentury ships’ chandlers is named afterthe great shipping company The WhiteStar Line, and The Beatles were known tofrequent the back room – just have a lookat their nameplates on the chairs.

● The White Star, 2 Rainford Gardens,Liverpool, 0151-231-6861.

Beatles fans will love the Hard DaysNight hotel. It’s a grade II listed Victorianbuilding with a modern Beatles inspiredtwist.

It’s the world’s only Beatle-themed hoteland worth visiting for their superb lifesizephotographs that adorn the walls.

Their restaurant, Blakes, is named afterSir Peter Blake, the artist who created theartwork for the Beatles’ famous

St Peppers album cover.They do a superb Strawberry Fields

cocktail – fresh strawberries crushed withlemon thyme herbs and sugar syrup,shaken with large measure ofgrass-infused vodka taken from theoriginal site of Strawberry Fields andfinished with a grind of fresh pepper. It’s£8.95, or take advantage of their 2 for 1offer until 7pm every day.

If you’re feeling peckish, Blakes has 72covers, and head chef Andy Scott does amean duck duo with roast breast of duckand smoked duck bon-bon, served withgrain mustard potato and sweet plumreduction (£19.95)

It’s a regular haunt for Liverpool andEverton football players, and Nickelbackate there last month when they stayed atthe hotel.● Hard Days Night hotel, 41 North JohnStreet, Liverpool, 0151-236 1964.

ENJOYAHARDDAY’SNIGHTOUT!

Craig Ollerhead, sous chef, at Blakes restaurant inthe Hard Days Night hotel, North John Street; below:Mathew Street is a thriving night spot



THE Malmaison bar andbrasserie has played hostto Guy Ritchie, GordonRamsay, Westlife, TakeThat, Katie Price, Coleen

Rooney and Alex Curran, Lulu,Anastacia, Jean Pierre Novelle,Marco Pierre White, Rhianna,Suagbabes , Natasha Hamilton,Alisha Dixon, Kelly Brook andDavid Gest. Not that we’rekeeping count.

It’s slinky, sexy chic andstylish – a great place to popinto for a drink. ChrisFitsimmons does dreamycocktails that change daily, welove their Cosmo, BoConceptCocktail, Blackforest Martini,Margarita, The Plum and theMal Brulee (all £7.95).

If all that drinking has givenyou an appetite, chef AdamTownsley does top steak ongletfrites (£10), Cains beer batteredfish and chips (£13.95), pizza bythe foot (£8.95) and traditionalScouse (£10.95). Feeling hungry?Us too...● Malmaison, 7 William JessopWay, Liverpool, 0151-229 5000.

Fancy a dining room with aview? Try the stunningPanoramic, Britain’s highestrestaurant. It’s the best way tosee the city, and over to NorthWales, Southport andManchester.

As the restaurant isapproximately 300ft above sealevel there is no gas allowed inthe building so Chef ChrisMarshall has to cook everythingin water-baths. He takes it all inhis stride.

The food is legendary – theirrabbit saddle with red wineragu and roasted carrots (£23)has won them a host of fans.

Along with their extensivecocktail list, Panoramic servessome exclusive beers fromaround the world includingHebridean Gold, an ale brewedfrom porridge oats on the Isle ofSkye, and Val-Dieu, a blondebeer from Belgium

But book early, they only seat52 and they have a devoted fanbase.

Celebrity diners includeKanye West, Liz McClarnon,Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt,Estelle, Kid Rock, The Killers,Bono, Sir Paul McCartney andKaty Perry, but the biggest staris the view.● Panoramic, West Tower,Brook Street, Liverpool,0151-236 5534.

The Noble House has to winthe most promising bar andrestaurant award of 2010. Stilljust weeks old, it’s already a

firm favourite on the city scene.But then we’d expect no less

from Stuart Ross, the manbehind Alma de Cuba, in SeelStreet and Portico Cantina andBar on the Albert Dock, and RobPreston, of The Living Room.

It’s already played host to theWags – Jude Cisse threw a partythere, inviting JamieCarragher’s wife Nicola,Hollyoaks actresses CarleyStenson and NathalieEmmanuel, and formerCoronation Street star NikkiSanderson.

But then it’s no stranger tothe Hollyoaks cast – and Corriefor that matter – when EmmaRigby hosted her leaving partythere. Helen Flanagan, whoplays Rosie Webster, joinedEmma’s co-stars John and NickPickard, Andrew Moss, BronaghWaugh, Ashley Taylor Dawsonand Carley Stenson at the barand restaurant.

Noble House is set inside the

Liz McClarnon inPanoramic, Britain’shighest restaurant;below: The NobleHouseMain picture: JASONROBERTS

IT’STHEHEIGHTOFFASHION

famous Heywood building,fusing the discretion of a 1920sspeakeasy with the style of adowntown Manhattanrestaurant.

Inside there’s a “new deco”interior design concept, with aBarlas Baylar-designedchandelier incorporating2.5-miles of delicate nickelchainmail suspended above acustom-made 16ft long, solid oakdining table.

Head chef Dave Critchleyrecommends the roastGoosenargh duck breast (£18.50)and the meat and fish skewer,which is interwoven withroasted vegetables (£35)

The drinks are divine – askhead bartender Conor Foley tomix you a green apple martini –a tribute to the Big Apple itself(£5.50) or a breakfast martini,served with jam toast (£6.95).

After hours, indulge in atouch of underground glamourin the secret and discreet

basement bar La Guarida andget yourself in a New York stateof mind as you enjoy some ofthe best Martinis in the city.● The Noble House is inHeywood Building, 5 BrunswickStreet, Liverpool, L2 OUU,0151 236 5346,www.thenoblehouse.co.uk

The Restaurant Bar & Grillserves great, simple dishes in amodern and stylishenvironment.

Eclectic dishes, all of whichare freshly prepared and madeon the premises by therestaurant's chefs, range fromthe best Thai green curry we’vetasted (£15.25) to the moretraditional salmon fishcakes,and fillet steak simply grilled.Wines and cocktails are selectedfrom around the world, and areworth a visit on their own.● Restaurant Bar & Grill,Brunswick Street, 0151 2366703, www.therestaurantbarandgrill.co.uk.

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THE James Monro on Tithebarn Streetis named after the merchant vessel ofthe same name, which was the firstever scheduled passenger service fromLiverpool to the Americas.

It’s a must for real ale fans – try the SweetChariot or one of their single cask maltwhiskeys. Try cask number 1.4 from 1978(£3.87) and enjoy a smooth, dreamy 32-year-oldspeciality.

Kim Cattrall was spotted there, so it seemsto have the Sex and the City stamp ofapproval.

If you’re feeling peckish, it’s a gastropubtoo. Chef Leigh Harvey does a BullfightersPie, with free range British beef, chorizo,olives, tomato, a dash of sherry and butterbeans (£10.50) and a 12oz rRibeye steak toppedwith prawns and a béarnaise sauce, servedwith homemade chips (£16.50).● The James Munro, 69 Tithebarn Street,Liverpool, 0151-236 9700.

Living Room on Victoria Street is a greatnight out all in one. Start your night in therestaurant with a delicious meal, from theremove on through to night club mosquitowhere you can dance the night away.

It’s chic, upbeat and welcoming, with aguest list other bars would die for – Jordan,Alex Gerrard, Coleen and Wayne Rooney,Westlife, Rio Ferdinand, Dirk Kuyt, AbbeyClancy and Sheree Murphy have all beenspotted there, and Paolo Nutini, Chris DeBurgh, Jamie Cullum, Blake and China Crisishave all played there.

The Club below the Living Room, Mosquito,used to be the famous SHE club.

Try head bartender Zeljko Sunjar’s freshstrawberries and basil muddled and thenshaken with Gran Marnier, Chamborde andcranberry juice and finished with a hint offreshly ground black pepper (£6.95).

In the restaurant, enjoy beer batteredWhitby cod and chips with mushy peas andtartare sauce (£12.95) and Thai red chickencurry served with steamed rice (£11.95).● The Living Room, 15 Victoria Street,Liverpool, 0151-236 1999.

The Slaughterhouse is the perfect settingfor comedy. With a friendly atmosphere andan intimate performance space, it’s theperfect place to see the stars of tomorrow.

The downstairs space first became acomedy venue in 2004 and has played host tofamous faces such as Mark Thomas, DaraO’Briain, Alan Carr, Tommy Tiernan, JustinMoorhouse (Phoenix Nights) and JasonManford (8 Out Of 10 Cats).

Each show features two headlinecomedians, a compère, and a promisingnewcomer, as local as possible. It’s £10 a ticketon Fridays and £12 a ticket on Saturday, andthe door policy is pretty much ‘be nice, or gohome’.

After the show you can party until the earlyhours with a free shot and live music upstairs.It also does one of the best pints of Guinnessin Liverpool, so we would suggest buyingtickets early.● The Slaughterhouse, Fenwick Street, 0151227 5946.

WAG hangout and celeb favourite NewzBar has made a real name for itself in the city.The revamped Water Street venue attractscapacity crowds each weekend. Those who

want to see and be seen line up at themile-long marble bar, while those who aretrying not to be seen party the night awayin private booths.

The restaurant upstairs, which doubles asa VIP area, sells bubbly by the box load atweekends, although the fridges are also wellstocked with beer for every taste, and thecocktail menus are fully loaded withoptions.● Newz Bar, 18 Water Street, L2 8TD,0151 236 2025, www.newzbar.co.uk

Lee Lynch with 1970sthemed cocktails at theLiving Room in VictoriaStreet. Below: TheJames Munro inTithebarn StreetMain Picture: ANDREWTEEBAY

WHERETHESTARSWILLMAKEROOMFORYOU. . .

NeilFitzmauriceand KeithCarterlaunching a newcomedy nightat theSlaughterhouse

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ALMA de Cuba is set insidethe magnificent conversionof the former St Peter’sCatholic Church and manyof its ecclesiastical fittings

still remain, including the originalaltar, stained glass windows andmarble plaques.

A multi award winning restaurantand bar, it plays host to 450 in thebar and 200 in the restaurant,making it one of the bigger andbetter nightspots in the city.

The menu is influenced by spicesand flavours from around the world,particularly Caribbean, Spanish andLatin American. Some of the mostpopular dishes include starter confitduck and spring rolls with blackplum, tomato and chilli jam (£6.95)and main dish king prawn pil pil(£12.95) made with care by head chefJohn Tamila.

Alex Hannah oversees the bar,renowned for its innovative cocktaillist, favourites include Victoria’sSecret – Wyborowa vodka, Giffardblackberry liqueur, Gilard wildstrawberry liqueur, freshstrawberries, cranberry juice andblack pepper – (£5.95) and Mai TaisAppleton VX rum, XM 5yr rum,

Cointreau, Velvet Falernum, almondand pomegranate syrups, freshorange, lime and pineapple juices –(£6.95).

Bands including 6ix Toys, TheMaybes? + John Power, TheAeroplanes, The GreatNorthwestern Hoboes, Hey Tourists!and The Mojave Collective have allplayed there, and it’s a great venuefor live music.

The spirit of the church is keptalive with the Sunday service gospelbrunch, where diners can relax tothe soothing sounds of live gospelchoir, Soulful Voices.● Alma de Cuba, Seel Street,Liverpool, 0151 702 7394,www.alma-de-cuba.com.

FOR a night to remember, head toclubbing Mecca Nation inWolstenholme Square.

Presided over by Penelope, amassive twisted organic lookingpiece of Jorge Pardo public art, ithas been home to Cream,Medication and Chibuku nights,among many, many others.

Inside it’s an Alice in Wonderlandof a club, with dancing spread overthree rooms, each of varying shapeand size. The visuals and lighting

system are great, and logosspin and slide across the darkwalls. It holds thousands, butdon’t let that fool you, there’snormally a queue outside,especially for the morepopular events.● Nation, WolstenholmeSquare, Liverpool.

Around the corner, TheMonro does great comfort food.Treat yourself to fish andchips, or cod loin with beerbutter and homemade chipsand tartar sauce, in their newluxury dining room upstairs,or enjoy a pint of Cross Buttockreal ale and Jennings SneckLifter, their tasty dark beerderived from the use ofcoloured malts. It’s a realwinter treat, with a cosy,homely feel and lots of roaringfires.

Pete Doherty was spotteddowning pints of Guinness withdouble shots of port mixed in,but normally the clientele is alittle more refined.● The Monro, 92 Duke Street,Liverpool, 0151-707 9933,www.themonro.com.

YOUMAYBECOMEACONVERT

Chef Scott Gavinprepares pan friedcutlets and confitshoulder with crushedpeas and baby carrotsat The Monro, DukeStreet; below: Alma deCuba in Seel Street

Blundell Street the supperclub

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the supperclub

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NOT so long ago, when the port wasthe trading lifeblood of Liverpool,the backstreets of the Ropewalkswere used to make the milesof rope for the ships in the nearby

docks.Now the creative sector – and a host of

superb bars, restaurants, music venues andclubs stand tall among the remnants of thearea’s past.

Part cinema, part art gallery and partperformance space, FACT is something of aLiverpool institution. Situated on the site ofa former tea warehouse, the centre for Film,Art and Creative Technology (or FACT, as it’sknown to its mates) is the result of apartnership between the Foundation for Artand Creative Technology and City Screen,operator of the Picturehouse cinemanetwork.

It not only provides space for temporaryexhibitions of film, video and new media art,but also has three cinema screens showingarthouse and independent film. And the baris to die for.

Along with fortnightly film quizzes, ithosts monthly poetry evenings, and offers aselection of board games for yourentertainment. And, because it is fullylicensed throughout the building, you canenjoy your drinks in the cinemas. Bliss.● FACT, 88 Wood Street, Liverpool, L14DQ, 0151 707 4444, www.fact.co.uk.

Zanzibar is the bar that launched TheCoral and The Zutons – it features a host oflive music every night.

It’s popular with everyone from studentsto the more mature music lover, and NoelGallagher has even been known to pop alongfor the occasional impromptu gig.

It’s not quite as exotic as the name sounds– there doesn’t seem to be an African theme –but it’s a fantastic bar and venuenonetheless. The studiously understatedclientele are a friendly bunch, and on anygiven night you’ll hear a mixture ofindie-rock, electro and funk. The Zanzi, asit’s known to its friends, has regular bandnights, where acts turn promoters for theevening and join together to put on a bill of

likeminded artists, but more often than not,there’s a bigger band in, with support fromlocal acts.

Either way, the standard is normally high,and it’s well worth a visit for any music fan.● The Zanzibar Club, 43 Seel Street,Liverpool, L1 4AZ, 0151 707 0633,www.thezanzibarclub.com

If you fancy something a bit more hectic,head down to packed muso favourite TheMasque, formerly the Barfly. With threespaces and live music every night, promoterPaula Stewart takes bookings from signedand unsigned bands from all over the world,

although competition for slots is tough.Head down for good drinks with good

music and some very rock n roll cocktails –and to see the hottest new talent. Brand NewHeavies, Marina & The Diamonds, TheMaybes? and Roots Manuva have all playedthere. It’s also home to club nights Circusand Chibuku.

There tend to be just as many musiciansin the audience too – Pete Doherty, TheWombats and Miles Kane are all oftenspotted there – and the Wags can’t getenough of their music, as Masque revellersColeen Rooney and Alex Curran will tell you.

But it’s not one for the faint hearted – theMasque is one of the most haunted buildingsin Liverpool. Lots of ghosts have been

spotted here, and there are plentyof scary stories. Don’t say we didn’twarn you. ..● The Masque, 90 Seel Street,Liverpool, L1 4BH, 0151 707 6171,www.masque-liverpool.com.

Mello Mello is a gem of a gigvenue. Part cafe, part bar, partvenue it’s run by an artisticcollective, and as a result, theline-up is fairly alternative. It’soften used during Sound Cityfestival, and for one-off gigs, anddoes a great line in mellow jazz.Drop in for creative goings on,poetry readings and fabulous cake.● Mello Mello 40-42 Slater StreetLiverpool, L1 4BX, 0151 707 0898

Mytop tips . . .DAVE PICHILINGI, festival director

for Liverpool Sound CityAs the man behind one of the hottest

festivals in the world, Dave certainly

knows his way around the city’s hotspots.

“Avoid the tourist traps and get off the

straight and narrow,” says Dave.“Through Liverpool Sound City we bring

in people from all over the world. Artists

and music business people are constantly

telling us how much they love Liverpool

and cannot wait to get back. Many of

them have their own unique stories

about Liverpool people and places that

they have encountered when taking a

chance on a pub, club or venue off the

beaten track.”So what’s Dave’s favourite hidden

gem?“The Roscoe Head pub. It is a great place

to escape to after work – kind of like

hanging out in your nan’s. It’s atiny place full of character andcharacters.“The most amazing place to seethe city is the PanoramicRestaurant on the 34th floor ofthe Beetham Tower skyscraper.The food is great but the viewsare even better. You can get atable and look out over thebreathtaking Liverpool skyline.“My favourite club night still has tobe Chibuku. I don't get there asoften as I used to. It still holds a special

place in my heart as I was responsible for

bringing Chibuku to the Masque many

moons ago. I think Richard McGuinness

is a great promoter and has managed to

keep it fresh and exciting.“Up there with Richard is Revo from

Korova and Sound City. I think when

people look back in 20 years timeRevo will be talked about in thesame way as Roger Eagle andEric’s. He has been responsible forshaping and changing the sound ofLiverpool over the last 10 years.The man has platinum ears!“My favourite place in town to eatis Puschka. The food, service andambience is the best you getanywhere in the world. Out oftown I am also a big fan of

Kinsellas on Rose Lane. There’s

nowhere better to escape, read the

paper and have the best big breakfast in

Liverpool.“My favourite place for a quiet drink is

Sakara on Aigburth Road. It's a stone’s

throw from my front door. It has no telly

and no music. It is a great place to go on

your own and just unwind.”

Part cinema, part art gallery and part performancespace, FACT is something of a Liverpool institution.Main picture: The cafe at FACT.Bottom: Young KOF performing at Zanzibar as partof the Mathew Street Festival

LETTHISNEWQUARTERROPEYOUIN



THE Chameleon is cocktail heaven.Think a modern Alice in Wonderland,with Pete Clucas, manager and headbartender, at the centre of it all, mixingup his own imaginative cocktail

menu.The Paris Hilton is by far the most

popular. Made with fresh strawberrypuree, home infused vanilla sugar andaged balsamic vinegar all mixed andreduced down together and then toppedup with Venezuelan gold rum, freshmint, strawberry liqueur and the finaltouch: pink Champagne.

The whole Hollyoaks cast were in lastweek, with the girls indulging inParisHiltons.

While most of the cocktails are around£5, Chameleon offers a very extravagant£100 Mad Hatters Tea Party cocktail.Served in a large teapot, the drinkcontains a whole bottle of passion fruit vodkaand a whole bottle of rose Champagne.

If live music is your thing, check out theirTuesday open mic night.● Chamelon Bar, 7-9 Back Colquitt Street,Liverpool, 0151-707 0283.

Parr Street is a hub for Liverpool’s musicscene, and the biggest studio in the countryoutside London.

It hosts relaxed acoustic gigs throughoutthe week, and its award-winning restaurantcooks up a mean Sunday lunch to help yourecover from the night before.

The studios are run by Echo and theBunnymen’s managers, and play host to thebiggest names around, including Coldplay,Echo and the Bunnymen, Rihanna, TheBeautiful South and The Charlatans.

It’s also home to producer Ken Nelson, whohas won three Grammy awards during histime at Parr Street, thanks principally to hiswork on Coldplay’s albums, Parachutes, Rushof Blood to the Head and X & Y.

There’s also a hotel upstairs, normally usedby visiting artists and bands, so the celebcount is high.

Try 33-45 upstairs, for drinks and dancing,or downstairs, Studio2 is a breakfast bar inthe morning, an events venue by day and ahaven for music- loving drinkers at night.

The pine, rock and whitewash interiorlooks more ski lodge than watering hole, witha couple of hidden rooms off the main loungeoffering plenty of avenues to get lost inconversation.

There is no loud music, dancefloor, drinksoffers or burly doorman.● Parr Street, 33-45 Parr Street, Liverpool,0151-707 1050.

La’go is in prime position on the corner ofSeel Street and Colquitt Street. The bar itselfis longer than in most places, meaning there’snever much of a crush to get served. Thereare some seats and tables, room to stand, bitsat both end where you can dance, and sometoilets. But it works to keep it simple, in fact,if you look at the dodgy coloured glowingfireplaces they’ve installed, it’s probably agood thing most of it is strictly no-frills.

No gimmicks or outlandish concepts, justkeep it simple, price the drinks log withoutany five-shot-for-a-pound gimmicks, and treatthe punters well.● La’go, 16 Colquitt, Street, Liverpool,0151-709 0166.

Down on Duke Street, Sapporo Teppanyakiis a real treat.

Based around 12 teppanyaki tables whichcan seat approximately 160 guests at any one

time, it’s a theatrical dining experience.Head chef Vuditchai Taermisiri, or Woody

as he’s known to his mates, whips up classicchicken teriyaki (£14.95), Fillet of sea bass(£17.50) and the Sumo – 10oz of prime Scotchrib eye steak priced (£18.50).

They have an extensive wine list rangingfrom £13.95 per bottle, sake from £2.45 per cup,sparkling wines from £19.95 per bottle,champagnes from £28 per bottle, Japanesewhiskies from £4.75 and draught Asahi beer.

Fernando Torres, Oasis and EnriqueIglesias have all been spotted soaking in theatmosphere – and the fab food.● Sapporo Teppanyaki, 134 Duke Street,Liverpool, 0151-705 3005.

Just down the road, Il Forno has anextensive wine list. The house wine is pricedat £12.95 per bottle and the classic cocktail KirRoyale at £6.95.

Head chef Paolo Cillo makes yummygamberoni all’aglio’ – tiger prawns pan friedin garlic, olive oil, chill and tomato (£8.95).They have an extensive pizza menu, made inthe infamous fire breathing oven – pricesstart £5.85 for a marinara.

Steven Gerrard, Nickleback and MikelArteta have all been spotted there, althoughnot together. What a night that would be...● Il Forno, 132 Duke Street, Liverpool,0151-709 4002.

FROMCOCKTAILS... TOCOLDPLAY

SapporoTeppanyaki, right,is a feast of foodandentertainment.Chameleon,above, and IlForno, belowright, are realgems

Open from 4pm - Late (Tue-Sun). Closed Mondays25 The Strand, Beetham Plaza. 0151 263 6886

Facebook: Blush Liverpool. Email: [email protected]

❤ The Love Potion Martini £5.50❤ The Passionately Blush Champagne Cocktail £6.00

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THERE was once a Victorianwarehouse on the site of Lloyds, thehuge JD Wetherspoon pub on thecorner of Concert Square.Onceoccupied by manufacturing chemists,

from the early 1900s into the 1950s, there wasalso a sizeable chemical factory next door.The chemical industry in Liverpool began innearby Lime Street, originally called LimeKiln Lane.

In the 1890s, it housed brass founders andthe Monserrat Lime Juice Company Stores,now it’s a big favourite with locals andstudents alike, with a party atmosphere witheverything from cheesy pop to funky house.This may be because they do a fabulousall-day breakfast, and the drinks are a steal.Plus it’s open til 2am on week nights, and3am at weekends.● Lloyds, Fleet Street/Concert Square,Liverpool, 0151-702 6810.

Savour a flavour of the Emerald Isle atO’Neill’s, Liverpool’s branch of the a popularchain of Irish themed bars with screensplaying sports matches and decent,low-priced serving food.● O’Neill’s, 2 Wood Street, Liverpool, 0151707 4941.

The Swann Inn is one of Liverpool's oldestpubs, now surrounded by the burgeoningcultural quarter. It’s a traditional, rock androll venue, with a good atmosphere and afriendly clientele.● The Swann Inn, 86 Wood Street,Liverpool, 0151 709 5281.

Throw another shrimp on the barbie,Sheila, and enjoy a night of Antipodean funat Walkabout. A great selection of Aussieand home grown lagers are served daily by afriendly bunch. All we need now is thesunshine...● Walkabout, 26 Fleet Street, Liverpool,0151 708 0843.

You could be forgiven for thinking the only

cuisine available after last orders was aburger or a greasy kebab.

But the versatile Eddie Rocket’s, in BoldStreet offers an altogether brighteralternative to queuing in a takeaway full ofworse-for-wear lager louts past the witchinghour.

With its fabulous music, retro feel, and fastand friendly service, it makes a great funalternative to a formal restaurant meal.

They’re open 364 days a year (apparentlythey can’t get the staff on Christmas Day)and music pipes out of the front door toentice hungry diners.

My favourite thing about Eddie’s has to be

their thick and creamy hand-dipped shakesand malts, blended with scrumptious puremalt extract which come in vanilla,chocolate, strawberry and Oreo Cookieflavours.

Eddie Rocket’s name apparently is dinerslang for empty pockets – although we foundit to be excellent value. So, if you’re lookingfor a good value, great fun venue to romancethat new love in your life, slip on your Fonzieleather jacket, roll out the pink Cadillac andget down to Eddie Rocket’s. You won’t regretit.● Eddie Rocket’s, Bold Street, Liverpool,0871 811 4811.

MEETMEONTHECORNER..

Eddie Rocket’s in BoldStreet, open 364 days ayear; below: EamonnLavin in O'Neill’s bar onWood Street



ITALIAN Club Fish does crackingcocktails, and, unsurprisingly, superbfish. Get head barman FrancescoAlbanese to whip you up a Robert DeNero or an Al Pacino (both priced £5.95)

and sit back in true Godfather style.Head chef Maurizio Pellegrini makes a

mean Lobster Thermidor, a fresh half lobster,topped with parmesan and veloute with a sideof spaghetti in a fresh cherry tomato sauce,served with mixed leaves (£16.95) and Cozzealla Marinara – pot of mussels served withchips (£10.95).

They hold live music nights and pastperformers have included David Knopov andGino Ciacio.

The bar, restaurant and music venue is thebrainchild of Rosaria Crolla and is heavilyinfluenced by her family’s Scottish-Italianbackground. She describes it as a crossbetween a traditional fish and chip café inScotland with a Mediterranean theme.

She’s a classically trained singer and therestaurant holds a number of music nights.

Celebs spotted include Bill Nighy and KenLoach, so you’ll be in good company over yourfish supper.● Italian Club Fish, 128 Bold Street,Liverpool, 0151-707 2110.

Tabac is happy to serve you just drinks ordrinks and food, staying open until 11pm mostnights.

It has been open for many years now, and isweathering well. Viewed from the front itlooks like it has been carved out of a block ofwood with its original panelling.

The theme of round corners continuesinside, and the wooden bar houses a built-inaquarium at knee level, full of fish who mustthink humans are just giant pairs of legs.

The bar is long and thin, with a wall ofcomfy leather seats.

It’s all table service, which is a good thingas the menu is about 10 pages long, with lotsof food and drinks to choose from, includingits own baked bread, and there’s animpressive list of snacks to order with drinks.● Tabac, 126A Bold Street, Liverpool,0151-709 9502.

The Egg Cafe off Bold Street, has long beena Mecca for Liverpool's trendy intellectualcrowd.

Hand-painted flowers on the walls charm asyou climb the creaky staircase to be greetedby the friendliest staff you could wish to meeton entering the roomy yet cosy, Bohemianvegetarian cafe.

There’s a mixture of medieval banquetingtables and smaller intimate corners, with amezzanine level that looks down over the rest.

There’s a great view over the city, and Egghosts regular poetry and music nights.

Egg is a Godsend for vegetarians andvegans who want choice – and ones with anappetite that a salad won't satisfy. There'susually four or five delicious-looking savourydishes, plus five or six desserts on offer.

It’s open until 10.30pm, and while you can'tbuy wine you can bring your own and becharged £1 corkage. It is a wonderfulsanctuary and, although it doesn’t have thepolish of fancier places, it has a homely feelthat just can’t be replicated.

● Egg Cafe, Top Floor, 16-18 Newington,Liverpool, 0151 707 2755.

The Jacaranda is a small, busy, pub withtiny booths, chandeliers and a Wurlitzerjukebox playing endless tunes by The Beatles.Originally the Jacaranda Coffee Bar, it openedin an old watchmakers shop and was apopular hangout for art students.

The Jacaranda was founded by AllanWilliams, The Beatles first manager and “theman who gave them away”.

In those days the main attraction was theRoyal Caribbean Steel Band who played in thecellar.

Now the walls are filled with pictures ofThe Beatles, Cilla Black and Brian Epstein,alongside posters for seemingly everyBeatles-related movie, play and revue.

Nestled among them is the celebrated 1956school picture of pupils at the LiverpoolInstitute, in which can bee seen Paul andMike McCartney, George Harrison, PeterSissons and various members of Gerry andThe Pacemakers, Remo Four and the QuarryMen.● The Jacaranda Club, 21 - 23 Slater Street,Liverpool, 0151 707 8281.

Just around the corner is Ye Cracke, JohnLennon’s favourite boozer in his art schooldays. Popular with nearby students, John saidof it: “When I went to art college in Liverpool... it was mainly one long drinking session.”

There's been a pub on the site for more than150 years, originally called the Ruthin Castle.The oldest part of the pub is the 1900s waroffice, the tiny snug in which boozers woulddiscuss Britain's overseas military operations.

On a summer evening you can’t beat thebeer garden round the back, where you can sitamong today’s student crowd, drinking awaytheir loans and dreaming of fame and fortune.● Ye Cracke, 13 Rice Street, Liverpool,0151-709 4171.

Heebie Jeebies is a nightlife institution,entirely in the good sense. It’s lasted the testof time, partly down to its fab outside terracebar for summer revellers. Live outdoor musicand pitchers of cocktails seal the deal withthis popular spot attracting a mixed crowd ofstudents, post-work drinkers and pre-gigcrowds.● Heebie Jeebies, 80-82 Seel StreetLiverpool, 0151 708 7001.

Tabac in Bold Street, and,below: Italian Club FishRestaurant, also in BoldStreet; bottom: The Eggcafe in Newington

ENJOYADATEWITHPACINOANDDENIRO



LIVE music pours out of Hannah’s bar,drawing in a packed crowd of studentsand young professionals. Part NewYork, part Liverpool charm, thesuper-quick bar staff will fix you an

array of cocktails to the back drop ofunsigned bands or live DJs.● 2 Leece Street, Liverpool, 0151 708 5959.

Tucked away in the centre of OldhamSquare, OSQA offers fantastic live musicplayed almost nightly, with good food and afriendly atmosphere. The wine is good, thefood is delicious and the prices reasonable.And come summer, their outdoor terrace inthe evening sunshine is heaven itself. Bringon those balmy evenings.● Oldham Square, Oldham Street,Liverpool, 0151-709 6611.

With a clientele which reads like a who’swho of Liverpool’s music scene, Korova is theuber-cool king of the indie scene.

It has now moved from its Wood Streetbase, but still, one look around shows thateveryone there is in a band. Some areworking there, others drinking. There’snormally a singer or two behind the bar, anda drummer supervising a delivery outside.They host live bands every weekend, andFriday nights are always popular.

The Rascals, Mark Ronson, Rumble Strips,The Kooks and Ladytron have all playedthere, as well as dozens of stars of the future.● Korova, 32 Hope Street, Liverpool,0151-709 7097.

Sitting in one of Liverpool lavish Georgianbuildings The Magnet is one of the mostpopular venues in the city. The Magnet alsooffers great stages for unsigned and signedbands on a weekly basis. Throw in a latenight weekend licence, NYC-style booths,cheap drinks and a friendly crowd and thisquirky shop front becomes a classic indiehub.● The Magnet, 45 Hardman Street,Liverpool, 0151 709 6969

The Flute is football central, with a choiceof endless live screens and reasonable priceson a variety of lagers and spirits.

● The Flute, 35 Hardman Street, Liverpool,0151 707 6485.

Fly In The Loaf on Hardman Streetcombines laid back charm in the day with abuzzing atmosphere by night. The beer isgreat, the service is quick and they do aSunday roast to die for. Formerly KirklandsWine Bar, and once upon a time a masterbakery, it’s a must-visit destination at anytime of day.● 35 Hardman Street, Liverpool, 0151-7080817.

Bumper is a live music favourite, loved bystudents and professionals alike. With acracking line-up of bands and DJs, it’s a greatplace to end any night. Plus, the bar serviceis quick, so you won’t be standing around allnight waiting for a drink.● Bumper, 18 Hardman Street, Liverpool,0151 707 9902, www.bumperliverpool.co.uk

Around the corner, in the shadow of theCains brewery, lies another pocket ofLiverpool’s cultural scene.

Leaf bar and tea shop shares its buildingwith Elevator Studios, home to The Zutons,The Wombats and Hot Club de Paris, so it’susually home to a resident muso or two.

With good service, a superb wine list, anddelicious food, it’s one of a growing breed ofplaces happy to serve you just drinks or

drinks and food, calling itself a tea shop andwine bar.

Inside, the decor is chic and welcoming,with stripped wooden floors and lovely bigcomfy sofas.

It’s the kind of place you could happily lazeaway an afternoon browsing the papers andpeople-watching with a glass (actually, makethat a bottle) of wine.

If you're feeling peckish, the butterbean

soup (£3.25) is suitably hearty, and there’s alovely black olive & parmesan salad (£3.25).

There's Carling on draught and bottlesaplenty, including Corona and Mexican lagerModelo. But my advice is to forget the beer,and browse the wine list instead. They do agreat, fruity fairtrade red, the ChileanEquality Casa Del Vino – Mission (£12). It’s afriendly, relaxed bar, without a whiff of a VIPsection, and definitely worth a special visit.● Leaf, 27 Parliament Street, Liverpool.0151-707 7747, www.thisisleaf.co.uk.

The Picket is one of Liverpool’s mostfamous music venues. Now on JamaicaStreet, the club was forced to leave itsHardman Street home in 2004 when it wassold to developers. Since then manager anddriving force behind The Picket Phil Hayeshas established the new base as a force to bereckoned with.

Many of Liverpool’s groups got their firstbreak at The Picket including The La’s,Shack, Space and The Coral. More recently ithas played host to Joss Stone, Elvis Costello,The Wombats and Damien Dempsey.● The Picket, 61 Jordan Street, Liverpool ,0151 708 6789

LET’SGOBURLESQUE

Burlesque star Katie Evans asMiss Ruby Fortune, pictured atThe Magnet in Hardman Street;right: Elvis Costello at thePicket; below: Natalie Haywoodfounder of the Leaf bar and teashop, Parliament Street



Mytop tips . . .CLARE DOOLEY, quizmistress, The Cambridge pub.The Cambridge Quiz and Bingonight has made a name for itselfas one of the best in town.Running from 8.30pm everySunday during term time, it’s amust for students and lovers ofall things cerebral. So we askedquiz mistress a few questions ofour own, and here are theresults...What's your after dark hidden gem

in Merseyside?“You can’t beat a cosy side-room in the

Philharmonic Pub, Hope Street,but by night, I’d recommendanyone to go and see thewaterfront area.”What's your favourite nighttime view of Merseyside?“The view from my flat of thecathedrals when they'reilluminated.”What's your favouriteclub/club night?

“Heebiejeebies”Where's the best place to eat in

the evenings?“Bistro Jacques, Hardman Street. Cozy.”

What's your favourite place for a

quiet drink?“On the sofas in the Bistro, in thebasement of 60 Hope Street. I had a

gorgeous caipirinha at Malmaison, but

lots of bars in Liverpool have a decent

cocktail menu and staff who know what

they're doing.”At the end of the night, where does the

best takeaway?“For a late night meal I'd go to Indian

Delight on Renshaw Street, for atakeaway I'd go to Hot Chilli on Berry

Street. Their flat onion bhajis aresomething else!”

LIVERPOOL is a Mecca for studentsfrom across the globe, and as a result,the university quarter around the twocathedrals is packed with things to seeand places to go.

For gigs, the Liverpool Guild of Students isthe place to be. Mountford Hall is the biggestof its venues, and has played host to LilyAllen, Ian Brown, The Cribs, Coldplay,Scouting For Girls, Editors, Eddie Izzard, theNME Awards tours, and puts on its ownnights for the students from all of Liverpool'suniversities and members of the generalpublic.

The Stanley Theatre can holdup to 320 people seated or 420people standing. This venueis often used by theUniversity of LiverpoolDrama Society forperformances yet it isalso perfect for moreintimate gigs.● Liverpool Guild ofStudents at 160Mount Pleasant,Liverpool,www.lgos.org

Baa Bar on MyrtleStreet is the newsister bar to theoriginal Baa Bar inConcert Square –which opened itsdoors 18 years ago.

It bills itself as thebest student union barin the world, with poshbooths, a first floorclubspace, and a gamesroom.

Head honchos Lindsay

Gannon and Elaine Clarke preside over the760 capacity bar, which prices all shooters at£1, promo bottles at £1.50, and as a deal,promo bottles and a shooter for £2.

Their Wok it Noodle bar is open 12-9 daily.1-6pm Sundays, and the Rawhide Raw standup open mic night runs every Tuesday. TheClubroom is open Friday and Saturday. Freeparty bookings at all times.● Baa Bar, 7 Myrtle Street, Liverpool,0151-707 0610.

The Everyman Bar and Bistro on HopeStreet is well worth a visit. Nestled below

the fabulous legendary theatre, it’s a

favourite of TV chef Simon Rimmer, and wasawarded Best Cheap Eats in 2008 for the thirdyear running by The Observer. Enjoy largeportioned three course meals for less than£15, and its quiche has to be tasted to bebelieved. Afterwards, sit, have a drink andsoak in the atmosphere.● The Everyman, 5-9 Hope Street,Liverpool, 0151-708 9545.

Tucked away on the corner of CambridgeStreet and Mulberry Street, The Cambridgeis at the heart of the University of Liverpooland has a great atmosphere. It is very popular

with students and lecturers alike. Head in forits pub quiz on a Sunday night.● The Cambridge, 5-7 Mulberry Street,Liverpool, 0151-708 7150.

The Caledonia on Catharine Street is anunderground, alternative music venue in apub. It has DJs and live bands throughout theweek – head there for classic dub reggae, souland disco.● The Caledonia, Catharine Street,Liverpool, 0151-709 5909.

Among the attractions in the universityquarter are the Everyman bistro andbar, main picture, Baa Bar on MyrtleStreet, inset top left, and LiverpoolUniversity’s Mountford Hall where LilyAllen is pictured on stage

WELCOMETOTHEUNIVERSITYOFLIFE



Mytop tips . . .

AWARD WINNING WRITERMIKE CHAPPLE’S ESSENTIAL, FACT-FILLED

HANDBOOK - A GUIDE TO THE TOP 30PLACES DRINK AND EAT IN LIVERPOOL...

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WAS£8.99 Hope springs eternal at the heart ofthe city’s cultural scene. The daddyof the Hope Street arts communityis the superb art deco style, Gradell listed Philharmonic Hall. It is one

of the UK’s top arts and entertainmentvenues, and home of the Royal LiverpoolPhilharmonic Orchestra, whose chiefconductor is Vasily Petrenko.

The Phil is the oldest survivingprofessional symphony orchestra and thesecond oldest concert-giving organisation inthe UK. It was founded by a group ofLiverpool music lovers in 1840 and has beenat the heart of the Liverpool’s cultural lifeever since.

But as well as the Phil's concerts, there's ayear-round programme with top namesfrom classical, contemporary and chambermusic, folk, roots, jazz, blues, rock, pop,comedy, spoken word and partnerships withthe City’s festivals including LiverpoolArabic Arts Festival, Liverpool IrishFestival, Liverpool Comedy Festival andBrouhaha.

Classic films are screened on the hall'scinema screen, which rises from under thestage, accompanied by Merseyside's onlyresident organist, the inimitable DaveNicholas. Upstairs, the Rodewald Suite runsAfter 8, a popular series of roots, jazz andunplugged gigs in the intimate, cabaretsetting.● Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street,Liverpool, 0151-709 3789,www.liverpoolphil.com

Over the road sits the Phil's sister, aninstitution in her own right. A Grade Ilisted celebration of Victorian ability todrink, The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (asit's officially known) is a late 19th centurygin-palace, notable for its listed gents'toilets, into which women are allowed aspart of a guided tour.

John Lennon famously complained thatthe price of fame meant 'not being able to goto the Phil for a drink'. It served as aregular hangout for The Beatles in theirearly days, and it's easy to see why.

The Phil (as it's known to its mates) is a

great old pub. All dark wood-panelled walls,mosaic covered floors and a central,horseshoe-shaped bar, lit with ornate stainedglass, it's a visual treat.

Settle down in one of the two snugs – theBrahms room and the Liszt room – or see andbe seen in the Grande Lounge, with itscrystal chandeliers, stained glass andmagnificently plastered ceiling.● The Philharmonic Dining Rooms, 36 HopeStreet, Liverpool, 0151 707 2837

About as far as you can get from youraverage chain bar, the Casa was bought byformer Liverpool dockers who lost their jobsin the 90s.

With a mixed bag of a clientele made up ofstudents from the nearby universities andmany ex-dock workers themselves, the barhas a friendly atmosphere and acontemporary feel.

As well as the bar, it offers two functionrooms which host a variety of meetings forsocial groups in the area and gigs are heldthere, too. They do good food and great beer,plus, on a Friday after work, they often do a

NATALIE HAYWOOD,founder of the Leaf bar and teashop, Parliament Street,Liverpool.What's your after darkhidden gem in Merseyside?The Picket for reggae andworld music shows includingthe likes of Nneka, MagicDiamonds etc.What's the one place you'drecommend a visitor tothe area to see by night?Alma de Cuba is a must forsomeone who wants to be wowed. It’s

one of the most stunning bars in the

world.What's your favourite night time

view of Merseyside?The top of the Radio City Tower on one

of their evening tours around the station

or the view of Liverpoolfrom Woodside Ferry in theWirral as dusk falls.What's your favouriteclub/club night?Cream, Circus and Chibukuare all still flying high but thebest new club in Liverpool isthe Kazamier, theyprogramme a wide variety ofnights that usually involvefancy dress, lots of abstractentertainment and a coolcrowd.

Where's the best place to eat in the

evenings?I like a trip to Neighbourhood onWoolton Road or if I fancy something

spicy, I head to The Light of Bengal on

Aigburth Road.

What's your favourite place to catch

live music?The Late at the Tate evenings at The Tate

are a nice place to hear some live music.

Other favourites include St Bride’sChurch, Studio 2 on Parr Street and Leaf

for some enchanting folk.What's your favourite place for a

quiet drink in Merseyside?The Quarter or The Everyman Bistro on

Hope Street. Nice crowd, European cafe

culture feel and great a buzz. Or Cains’

Brewery Tap or Fly in the Loaf for real

ale. FACT do a good film quiz that’s been

going for years but it’s quite hard.At the end of the night, where does

the best takeaway?Mr Chillis on Berry Street for a chicken

kebab with girlie chilli sauce.



free buffet for drinkers. Bliss.● CASA, 29 Hope Street, Liverpool, 01517092 148

The Side Door was awarded a two for its“good-value ticket for culture vultures” inthis year's Which Guide, and it's been feedinghungry concert goers for years. Pop in beforea play at the Everyman or a concert at thePhil and enjoy their excellent, home-cookedfood.● The Side Door, 29 Hope Street, Liverpool,0151 707 7888,www.thesidedoor.co.uk

Just around the corner, Puschka, on RodneyStreet, prides itself on offering the best ofmodern British cuisine, albeit servingalongside some colourful Mediterraneanofferings.

I would kill and die for their butternutsquash and sweet potato soup (£5.50), with awedge of lime served alongside. Theirtapenade, artichoke, parmesan and crustybread (£5.50) is similarly sublime, andmeat-eaters will love the olive oil mash andbraised fennel resting against the slow roast

belly of pork (£13.50). On the excellent winelist, the velvety Montepuciano stands out.

But book early – Puschka is devilishlypopular – and rightly so.● Puschka, 16 Rodney Street, Liverpool,0151 708 8698

On the other side of Hope Street lies astunning restaurant quarter.

60 Hope Street is one of Liverpool’sfinest foodie havens. Head chef SarahKershaw does a divine deep fried jamsandwich with Carnation milk ice cream(£6.50), which must be tasted to be believed.

Drinkers will adore the BrandyAlexander, Cognac, Dark Chocolate, Crèmede Cacao, milk, cream and freshly gratednutmeg (£6.75).

Robert Downey Jr, Ken Loach, Jude Lawand Rolf Harris have all been spottedsampling its contemporary Britishelegance. The restaurant seats 100, and theBistro 35, so book early, especially at busytimes.

It celebrates its birthday on St George’sDay and is 11-years-old this year. It also has

one of the best special offers in town, checkout their January sale of three courses for£19.95 – which is very kindly on untilFebruary 27.● 60 Hope Street, Liverpool, 0151 7076060, www.60hopestreet.com

Just over the road, HOST is inspired bythe New York areas, South of Houston Streetand North of Houston Street, two of themost fashionable parts of the city, famousfor excellent restaurants and their vibrantyet dynamic atmospheres.

It’s a Pan-Asian restaurant set on thecorner of Falkner and Hope Street. Thevenue has a seating capacity of 100 with alounge bar and drinking area. For thosewanting to feel the buzz of the street,outdoor seating surrounds the venue.

Head Chef Ashley Richie makes a greatbutterfly chicken with Thai curry risottoand seaweed (£9).

Sip their yummy HOSTini (£5.95) –mandarin vodka, freshly squeezed carrotand lemon juice with a dash of gum syrup.

Kim Cattrall and Jonathan Pryce have

been spotted dining there – diners arewelcomed by a seating plan akin to thefashionable noodles bars of the Far East.Long tables, chopsticks and spices all inrelaxed, contemporary surroundings.● HOST, 31 Hope Street Liverpool, 0151708 5831.

The Quarter, and the new accompanyingdeli, The Quarter Kitchen is a hang-out forthe Liverpool creative set – expect to bumpinto artists, actors etc.

Xabi Alonso, Dominic West, David Guestand Jamie Carragher have all fallen underthe spell of its casual, rustic charm in acosy and artistic setting. Even Yoko Ono hasvisited for a pizza. In the summer, TheQuarter is in the sun all day – the best placeto get a tan in the city.

A meeting place all day long, TheQuarter’s unique atmosphere attracts avariety of guests from businessmen tobohemians. They do a great CabernetSauvignon La Deliza (£11.95 a bottle).● The Quarter, 7 Falkner Street, Liverpool,0151-707 1965, www.thequarteruk.com.

WHYWEMUSTLIVE INHOPE

The Philharmonic pub on the corner of Hope Street,with the Metropolitan cathedral in the distance; below:The Casa in Hope Street; far left: Puschka in RodneyStreet Main picture: COLIN LANE



THE 02 Academy,formerly the CarlingAcademy, is a hot spot foralternative music in thecity. Hosting everyone

from Arctic Monkeys to TheZutons, taking in The TingTings, Modest Mouse andQueens of The Stone Age alongthe way.

A superb live venue, itlaunched in September 2003,with local heroes Shack andquickly made a fantastic namefor itself, thanks to its uniquewarehouse feel, complete withmezzanine level, and secondarystand-alone venue, Academy 2.

The two spaces mean they canoffer a really diverse line-up,plus the facilities for some greatclub nights and a showcaseforum for Merseyside’sunsigned talent. Since opening,fans have got up close andpersonal with artists on theirrise to the top, and the event isoften used for events such asLiverpool Music Week, SoundCity and it hosted the pre-partyfor the MTV Europe MusicAwards.● O2 Academy Liverpool,11-13 Hotham Street,Liverpool, 0151-707 3200,www.o2academyliverpool.co.uk

Before a gig at the 02Academy or a show at theEmpire, Ma Egerton’s, or Ma E’sas it is more commonly known,is always packed. Thislegendary Liverpool pub,previously known as The Eagle,takes its name from formerIrish-born landlady MaryEgerton, who arrived inLiverpool around 1890. It isperfectly placed on the corner ofPudsey Street and Lord NelsonStreet, behind Lime Street,making it well positioned forthe station, and also for thediverse cultural offerings onshow every night.

Famous faces over the yearsincluding Paul Nicholas, DavidEssex, Perez Hilton and WillSergeant have been seen there.● Ma Egerton’s, 9 PudseyStreet, Liverpool, 0151-7081570.

The Crown, right next toLime Street station, has to beone of my favourite pubs in thecity – and the only place I evergo just to stare at the ceiling. It’sa glorious interior of artnouveau moulded plasterfriezes.

Outside there are cut glasswindows, copper panels and the

beautiful golden letters. Thearchitect is unknown, but isbelieved to date back to1859. In1888, William Clarkson, theowner of the Midland, took itover, before in 1905, it was takenover by Peter Walker, Brewers ofWarrington and Burton onTrent.

History aside, the Crown iswell worth a visit, if only for itsstaggeringly reasonable drinks(it’s the only place I know whereI can get a round for a fiver) anda decent pub menu, again, atgreat prices. The service is good

too, and remarkably quick forsuch a busy pub.● The Crown, 43 Lime Street,Liverpool, 0151-707 6027.

Left Bank in Queens Squareis a real treat. Overlooking thesplendour of St George’s Halland St John’s Gardens it feelspleasantly continental, and thefood is excellent, and veryreasonably priced.

The menu has a mixture ofFrench and Italian dishes, andthey serve huge portions with asmile.

I’d recommend the pizza, but

every time we’ve been, the foodhas been excellent, and therealways seems to be a specialoffer of one sort another on.Best of all is Left Bank’s superbservice, and that fantastic view.● Left Bank Pizza and Pasta, 2Queens Square, Liverpool,0151-709 0922.

Legend has it that when theCapital of Culture judging panelcame up to Liverpool to assessthe city’s personality, they foundit in the atmosphere at DoctorDuncan’s.

Named after 19th century

medic William Henry Duncan,the country's first medicalofficer of health, this busy pub,which opened in 1999, wasdesigned by Steve Holt, formermanaging director at Cains.

It’s a cracking pub, and we’reawfully grateful about the whole08 thing, but do be aware that itgets very busy straight afterwork, so time your visitaccordingly.● Doctor Duncan’s, St JohnsLane, Queens Square,Liverpool, 0151 709 5100.

The Ship and Mitre is a beerdrinker’s paradise. Famed forits dozen ever-changing real alesand one of the largest selectionsof Belgian and German draughtand bottled beers in the city, it’sa gem of a free house. They also

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EAT AS MUCH AS YOU LIKEBUFFET, OVER 70 DISHES

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Grand Buffet £9.956.01am - 12am (includes Crispy Duck and Seafood)

Sunday All Day £6.7511.30am - 12am



do superb pub food at greatprices.

It’s a regular winner inCamra Liverpool and Districts'reigning Pub of the Yearcontests and stages regular beerfestivals, which each offer in theregion of 60 different brews, andattract countless beer huntersfrom across the north west andbeyond.● The Ship & Mitre, 133 DaleStreet, Liverpool, 0151 2360859, www.shipandmitre.co.uk

Tucked away down TruemanStreet, just down the road fromthe Ship and Mitre, theBadFormat Social Club has areal buzz about it. One of thecity’s newest venues, it’s onlybeen open since August, butalready it has a loyal fan base.

Its roots are in social clubs oftimes past, which weredeveloped in order to educateand provide space for activitiesfor workers and theunderprivileged.

The venue puts on some greatlive shows, DJ sets, musiclectures, cinema and cabaretevenings. They also offer freewi-fi, printing services,computer hardware andsoftware support, as part of acoffee culture workspace.They’ve just started GreasyLips, a club night to promotenew bands, under the guidanceof Alan McGee, the man whodiscovered Oasis.● BadFormat Social Club,Trueman Street, Liverpool,0151-227 5833.

Ben Garner at the Ship &Mitre pub in Dale Street,and, right, Abi Harding ofThe Zutons

15-21 Lark Lane Reservations: 0151 728 9728

Indian RestaurantFriendly atmosphere

Great foodBOOK FOR

FORVALENTINES

DAY



AWAY from the city centre,Merseyside is packed withgreat bars, restaurants,music venues and clubs.We can’t hope to feature

them all here, but here’s a littleflavour of some that you might nothave tried.

Lark Lane is a hive ofentertainment throughout theweek. Pistachio is a regularhangout for the Hollyoaks cast andLiverpool players.

They do a dreamy hot brandycoffee with cream, and pinkProsecco Casagheller Rabosa(£6.20).

Exec chef Graham Mahoneydoes smoked mackerel fillet withnew potatoes and salsa (£7.95) andMoroccan spiced lamb kebabsserved with pitta bread, coriandercous cous and Greek yoghurt(£11.95).

Lark Lane Jazz Band performevery Monday night exclusively fordiners.● Pistachio, 88 Lark Lane,Liverpool, 0151-726 0160.

Nearby, Red Fort is the perfectplace to enjoy an evening of goodcompany and fine authentic Indiancuisine.

With an extensive selection oftraditional and contemporaryIndian dishes, every taste iscatered for. Indulge in the freshestingredients, cooked to perfectionby their experienced gourmetchefs.

Try their Red Fort Special(£11.95), it is packed with delicioustomatoes, fenugreek leaves andmedium blend of spices and herbscooked with Tandoori chicken,chicken tikka, lamb tikka and kingprawn tikka.

Inside, you'll find a friendly,attentive welcome. So whetheryou're looking to celebrate withfriends and family or book aromantic evening for two, look nofurther than the Red Fort.● Red Fort, 15-21 Lark Lane,Aigburth, Liverpool, 0151 7289728, www.redfortlarklane.com.

Jalons on Smithdown Road is ahub of live music seven days aweek, with artists such as PaulBrooks, complementing theinternational cuisine on offer fromthe restaurant.

They’re open daily from 5pmuntil midnight, with great offersincluding a starter and a maincourse for £12.95 before 7pm everyday. Their wine list is impressivetoo, with Champagne starting at£4.95 a glass.● Jalons Restaurant, 477Smithdown Road, Liverpool, 0151734 3984, www.jalons.co.uk

There’s plenty to enjoy north of

the city too. On Waterloo Road,Bacchus Taverna is renowned forits mouthwatering menu of freshcooked Greek dishes. Diamond, theowner, makes traditional Greekspecialities with his expert eye fortop quality produce. The Moussaka(£13.50) made with layeredpotatoes, aubergines courgettesand mincemeat is superb.● Bacchus Taverna, 14 WaterlooRoad, Liverpool, 0151-255 1661.

In Waterloo, La Barbacoa offersa restaurant, bar, function roomsand much, much more. Betweensalsa classes, quiz nights and liveentertainment cabaret nights,there’s always something going on.

In the bar, they serve a goodrange of beers, wines and spirits.The bar menu features two hearty

LET’S

A goats cheesecroquette, atPistachio’s in LarkLane, top; below: theRed Fort restaurantalso in Lark Lane;right: Fraicherestaurant in Wirral;bottom: the BacchusTaverna on the DockRoad

www.jalons.co.uk ~ www.myspace.com/jalonslive

Jalons Bridewell RestaurantCampbell Square • L1 5BL

0151 709 4195

Jalons RestaurantSmithdown Road • L15 5AE

0151 734 0329

Live Music from our Boston Pianoevery Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat

Traditional Sunday Lunch

Starter & Main (early doors)£13.95 every day up till 7pm

~ Monday Night - A Night of Sinatra

~ First Tuesday of every month Gary Potter

~ Sunday - Wednesday Starter & Main -£12.95 all evening



meals for £10, with good homecooked food, and friendly service.

For bigger events there’s theBlundell Room on the first floor,where the Sunday carvery takesplace. This Friday they’re doing athree course Valentine’s menu anda Brian Ferry tribute band for £23a head.● La Barbacoa, 47-51 MerseyView, Waterloo, 0151-924 0445

Over the water, Wirral has athriving scene, particularly for livemusic and for food and drink.

Revolver in Birkenhead takeseverything you loved about theHotel California wrapped up in ashiny new package with someextra features, They’ve got newdecor, great bands and some newevents. Fridays see the massive

rock nights and Saturdays oftenhave a big covers band. The soundis great, and the atmospherefriendly.● Revolver, formerly HotelCalifornia, 2 New Chester Road,Tranmere, Wirral.www.revolver-rocks.com/

The Latin Quarter andBambuddha Lounge in Birkenheadis split into four main roomsacross two floors. Each Room playsits distinctive sound of funkyhouse, electro, house and R’n’B.Resident DJs Andy Potter and DJKwame always get the party moodgoing, and drinks promotionsalong the way mean theatmosphere stays vibrantthroughout the week.● The Latin Quarter and

Bambuddha Lounge, ConwayStreet, Birkenhead.

Jack Rabbit Slims in Hoylake hasgreat live music most Fridays andSaturdays and this Sunday there’sa Valentine burlesque special.China Crisis, Hudson Fall,Insanity Beach, The Kappa band,Wave Machines and Alexis Bluehave all played there. Open8pm-midnight.● Jack Rabbit Slims, GrosvenorRoad, Hoylake, Wirral, CH47 3BS,0151-632 7545.

To celebrate all the successesand achievements of Wirral’s foodand tourism industry, 2010 hasbeen declared Wirral’s Year ofFood – a year-long celebration offantastic food on the peninsula.

Everywhere you go, it seems

there’s great food just around thecorner. Fraiche in Oxton has amuch deserved Michelin star, andhas just been awarded the bestwine list of any UK restaurant bythe Which Good Food Guide 2010.Book early, as tables are indemand.● Fraiche, 11 Rose Mount,Prenton, 0151-652 2914,www.restaurantfraiche.com

Da Piero, a fantastic Italianrestaurant in Irby, was recognisedas the best new entry in the wholecountry in the 2010 Which Guide,and has been described as serving“food that fills you with joy”.They’ve also been mentioned inthe new Michelin guide, and arewell worth a visit, but, likeFraiche, make sure you book well

in advance, as their reputationproceeds them.● Da Piero, 5 Mill Hill Road, Irby,Wirral, 0151-648 7373,www.dapiero.co.uk

The new Peninsula Dining Roomin New Brighton has a great menu.Look out for their Vino Mondaywhich offers wine and two coursesfor £16 a head, which includes abottle of house wine per table oftwo.

This weekend they are doing aspecial Valentine’s Menu usinglocal produce for £30 a head.● Peninsula Dining Room, 3Grosvenor Road, New Brighton,Wirral, 0151-639 8338,www.peninsula-dining-room.co.uk

GETOUTANDABOUT. . .

A Ladies Day Breakfast at La Barbacoain WaterlooPicture: GAVIN TRAFFORD

The Crocodile• 19 HARRINGTON STREET, L2 • 0151 255 1731 •

Fri 12th February - Jimmys Karoake from 8pmSat 13th February - Anna Lee from 7pm Richie from 10pmSun 14th February - Karaoke with Jimmy from 8pmMon 15th February - Open Mic Night All singers and musicians welcome.

for more info call Jimmy on 07545 773955

The Baby Croc The Baby Croc is now available for private functions between Sun - Thurs - 0151 225 1731Thurs 11th Feb - Golden Oldie Karaoke from 8pmFri 12th Feb - GUY KING from 7.30pm Alan Lee from 11pmSat 13th Feb - Golden Oldie Karaoke from 8pmValentines Day - Randy King at 7pm

Friday & Saturday open til 2am — Sunday open til late

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-THURSDAY 11-8pm FRIDAY 11-6pm ALL DRINKS REDUCED INCLUDING£1.60 £1.50BECKS

BOTTLECARLSBERG &KRONENBOURG BOTTLES

(terms & conditions apply)

ALL LIVE SPORTS SHOWN HERE Sheltered Smoking Area in Courtyard with Outdoor TV


“liverpool’s swankiest new eaterie”OK Magazine

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